Chicago Auto Show

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7 Things to Do This February

Hit the Auto Show, theater, live music and more in February

FEBRUARY 2017 – It’s a new month, which means a whole bunch of new things to see and do in Chicago. Whether you’re a car aficionado, really into cider or love soulful gospel music, there is plenty for you to add to your calendar. Below are some of our picks to narrow down your choices.

Chicago Auto ShowWhat it is: The country’s largest car show, the Chicago Auto Show lets car lovers and people who are in the market for new wheels, come check out what automakers are rolling out for 2017 — and also some fun concept cars that likely will never actually get made.When: Feb. 11-20Where: McCormick Place

Chinatown Lunar New Year ParadeWhat it is: A grand celebration to honor the Year of the Rooster with a parade featuring plenty of dragon and lion dancers, drummers and smiling kids.When: Kicks off at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 5Where: Chinatown along Wentworth Avenue between 24th Street and Cermak Road

French Quarter of a Century Mardi Gras BashWhat it is: Fat Tuesday, baby! This is the official debaucherous kick off to Lent where you gorge on fattening foods and copious amounts of booze while listening to funk, jazz and Zydeco music. This party, hosted by the Mystic Krewe of LAFF, will feature rum Hurricanes, jambalaya and music by C.J. Chenier and the Red Hot Louisiana Band. Tickets cost $50 (in advance only) and you are required to wear a costume or formal attire with a mask or you won’t be granted entry.When: Feb. 25 from 8 to 11 p.m.Where: Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington

Straight White MenWhat it is: In the newest play at the iconic Steppenwolf Theater, Korean-American playwright Young Jean Lee explores what it means to be a straight, white male and the privilege that comes with that. The show centers around a father, his three adult sons and their raucous behavior at Christmastime.When: Through March 19Where: Steppenwolf, 1650 N. Halsted

Mavis StaplesWhat it is: The legendary gospel/soul/R&B singer performs in support of her latest album, Livin’ on a High Note, which was produced by singer M. Ward with songs by an array of great musicians including Neko Case, Ben Harper, TuneYards and Aloe Blacc.When: Feb. 17Where: Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan

Cider Summit ChicagoWhat it is: If your idea of hard cider is a sickly sweet drink, you need to attend the fifth annual Cider Summit Chicago. Come down to sip your way through 150 different local, regional and international ciders.When: Feb. 11Where: Navy Pier AON Grand Ballroom, 600 E. Grand.

Chicago Theater WeekWhat it is: More than 120 theater productions across the city participate in the fifth annual Chicago Theater Week to offer $15 and $30 tickets to encourage more access to the city’s robust theater community.When: Feb. 9-19Where: All over Chicago